May 29, 2017

Using Cannabis to fight Depression

The Holistic Alternative

Cannabis is a
safe alternative to antidepressants, as most prescriptions have side effects
that are mostly negative, cannabis consumption has shown to alleviate
feelings of sadness without any negative connotations. From 1999-2012 the
number of people worldwide who regularly take antidepressants doubled from 6.8%
to 13%, according to the Journal of American Medical Association.

Cannabis is a
faster working route to take than anti-depressants, because cannabis stimulates
the endocannabinoid system which is naturally found within human bodies. Endocannabinoids
are chemical compounds found in the brain that activate the same receptors as
THC, and have been shown to be helpful in treating depression that's typically
caused by chronic stress. Studies have shown that cannabis helps restore
endocannabinoid levels in your brain, therefore, relieving stress and easing
depression.

Chronic stress
actually reduces the production of endocannabinoids, of which are naturally
found to be typically high in people who aren't stressed out; when the
production of endocannabinoids are reduced, it effects your body a lot like a
reduction if serotonin which is a chemical also found naturally in the human
body. Serotonin works as a neurotransmitter and helps regulate your mood, similar to serotonin, your endocannabinoid system is just as important to maintain
when it comes to keeping a positive and healthy lifestyle.

There's
clearly a link between the body's endocannabinoid system and depression; recent
studies have shown that people who suffer from mental disorders even as extreme
as PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome) experienced a 75% reduction in
symptoms after experimenting with treatment of cannabis rather than a
prescription alternative. There are many benefits to taking this route, one
being not having to juggle a ton of pills and worrying about the risks of each;
some prescriptions are extremely expensive, none the less just downright
dangerous to take.

Here are a few
strains that are particularly awesome at alleviating feelings of sadness, and
rather, improving your mental and physical state of well-being:

·
Jack Herer- A sativa-dominant strain that's cherished
for its uplifting effects. Users have found themselves happier, creative and
uplifted.

·
Pineapple Express - A sativa-dominant hybrid, known for
its blissful qualities, and always a crowd favorite when it comes to having a
good time (star of "Pineapple Express" the classic, comedy movie) and
striving for laughter.

·
Harlequin- A solid, high CBD-Sativa. This strain usually
has a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, therefore will help alleviate any stress in your
body without completely altering your state of mind; CBD is a cannabinoid which
helps counteract anxiety, pain and depression without any psychoactive effect.

·
Cinex- This strain is a straight Sativa across the
board, and is always a winner when it comes to helping you feel creative, happy
and uplifted. I suggest using this strain while hiking, gardening or doing
anything creative.

·
Skunk #1- This strain is popular among growers, as
it's been used to create many fantastic hybrids. Skunk helps you feel creative
and happy, yet also can help with appetite loss.

Remember folks, depression is real, and not even half of the people who suffer daily from the disease are being cured or know of the potential of cannabis. Do your research and talk to your doctor before stopping any prescription medication and remember how much cannabis can help you without any harm done.